July Birth Flowers: Larkspur & Water Lily

Birth Flowers

Birth flowers are a delightful tradition that connects each month of the year with specific flowers, symbolizing the unique qualities and traits of individuals born during that month. As we delve into the world of July birth flowers, we invite you to join us in celebrating the beauty and significance of these floral treasures.

Larkspur (Delphinium)

Larkspur, scientifically known as Delphinium, is one of the two birth flowers for the month. Its history is as colourful and diverse as its blossoms. The name “Larkspur” carries hints of whimsy, derived from the Latin word “delphinium,” which means “dolphin.” This name was chosen due to the shape of its flowers, which resemble a dolphin’s nose, an enchanting nod to its unique appearance.

The history of Larkspur as a birth flower spans across time and cultures. This flower held significance in ancient civilizations and often played a role in rituals and traditions.

In Greek mythology, it was believed that Larkspur blossomed from the blood of Ajax, a heroic figure in the Trojan War. This association symbolized Larkspur’s connection to strength, courage, and the warrior spirit.

In Roman times, Larkspur was considered a symbol of joy and positivity. The vibrant colours and delicate petals made it a favourite in Roman gardens and floral arrangements. These ancient associations laid the foundation for Larkspur’s enduring appeal.

During the Victorian era, the language of flowers, known as “floriography,” was at its peak of popularity. It came to symbolize an open heart and strong bonds of love. Bouquets and arrangements often featured Larkspur as a means to convey feelings of love, affection, and an open-hearted approach to life.

Today, Larkspur continues to be cherished for its beauty and symbolism, making it a meaningful choice for July birthdays and various other occasions. 

Characteristics and Varieties

Larkspur, the July birth flower known for its elegant appearance, boasts a range of characteristics and captivating varieties that make it a favourite among floral enthusiasts and gardeners.

Physical Characteristics

1. Tall Spikes: Larkspur is distinguished by its tall, slender spikes that can reach impressive heights, often exceeding three feet. These spikes are adorned with numerous blooms, creating a stunning vertical display in gardens and floral arrangements.
2. Colour Palette: Larkspur blooms come in vibrant colours, making them versatile for various colour schemes and occasions. Standard shades include deep purple, pink, white, and multiple shades of blue. These colours can evoke a wide range of emotions and sentiments, allowing for personalization in floral design.
3. Petals and Shape: Larkspur flowers have petals with a distinctive shape, often resembling the spurs on a lark’s foot, which is how they got their name. These petals give the flowers a unique and attractive appearance.

Varieties

Larkspur offers a variety of cultivars and series, each with unique charm and characteristics. Some popular Larkspur varieties include:

1. Imperial Series: Known for its large, showy blooms, it features various colours, from soft pastels to vibrant hues. These Larkspurs are ideal for creating eye-catching floral arrangements.
2. Magic Fountains Series: This series is celebrated for its compact growth habit and prolific flowering. Magic Fountains Larkspurs are available in an assortment of colours and are well-suited for garden borders and containers.
3. Pacific Giant Series: As the name suggests, this series showcases Larkspurs with towering spikes and large, impressive flowers. They are available in various shades, making them a spectacular addition to gardens.
4. Sublime Series: The Sublime Series offers unique double-bloom Larkspurs with ruffled petals, adding a touch of whimsy to floral arrangements.
5. Giant Imperial Series: These Larkspurs are recognized for their massive flower spikes, which can reach extraordinary heights. They are often used to create dramatic garden focal points.

Water Lily (Nymphaea)

Water Lily, scientifically known as Nymphaea, stands as a symbol of serenity and natural beauty, and its origin and history are intertwined with mythology and spirituality.

Ancient Egypt

One of the earliest known associations with Water Lilies dates back to ancient Egypt. In the mythological context of the Nile River, the Water Lily was linked to the concept of rebirth and renewal. The ancient Egyptians believed that the world was created from a primordial ocean, and the emergence of the Water Lily from the water’s depths symbolized the act of creation itself. The daily blooming of the Water Lily was likened to the sun rising from the eastern horizon, signifying the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Moreover, the sun god Ra was often depicted seated within the petals of a Water Lily, reinforcing its connection to the divine and the sun’s life-giving energy.

Buddhism

Water Lilies also hold spiritual significance in Buddhism, particularly in Zen Buddhism. In Buddhist symbolism, the Water Lily represents purity, enlightenment, and the soul’s unfolding. Just as the Water Lily rises from the muddy waters to float gracefully on the surface, Buddhists see it as a metaphor for the spiritual journey, where the soul transcends the muddiness of materialism to attain enlightenment and purity.

Contemporary Symbolism

In contemporary culture, Water Lilies have maintained their symbolism of purity and serenity. They are often associated with tranquillity, calmness, and inner peace. Water Lilies’ elegant and serene appearance has made them a favoured choice for water gardens, ponds, and meditation spaces. Their presence in these settings is believed to create an atmosphere of relaxation and reflection.

Artistic Influence

The beauty of Water Lilies has also left a profound mark on art, primarily through the works of the famous French Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Monet’s paintings featuring Water Lilies, including his renowned “Water Lilies” series, captured the ethereal quality of these blooms and their reflection on the water’s surface. His artistic interpretations have elevated the Water Lily to an iconic status in art and culture.

As the July birth flower, Water Lily’s origin and history are steeped in symbolism and mythology. It embodies the concepts of purity, renewal, and spiritual growth, making it a meaningful choice to represent the qualities and aspirations of individuals born in the month.

Characteristics and Varieties

Water Lilies, the elegant aquatic wonders that grace the surface of ponds and water gardens, possess captivating characteristics and come in various exquisite forms.

Physical Characteristics

1. Floating Leaves: One of the most distinctive features of Water Lilies is their round, flat leaves that float gracefully on the water’s surface. These leaves are often waxy and have a natural water-repelling quality that keeps them dry and glistening.
2. Floating Flowers: The blooms of Water Lilies are simply mesmerizing. They are typically cup-shaped and float delicately on the water, held above the surface by long stems. The petals of Water Lily flowers are often translucent and come in various colours, with white, pink, and yellow being the most common.
3. Fragrance: Many Water Lily varieties, especially the pink and white ones, emit a sweet, subtle scent that enhances the sensory experience of being near these aquatic beauties.
4. Rhizomatous Growth: Water Lilies grow from rhizomes, thick, horizontal stems that root in the mud at the bottom of a pond or water garden. From these rhizomes, long stems rise to the water’s surface, bearing leaves and flowers.

Water Lilies offer various varieties and cultivars, each with unique charm and characteristics. Here are some notable Water Lily varieties:

1. Nymphaea odorata (American White Water Lily): Native to North America, this Water Lily features pristine white petals and a delightful fragrance. It is often chosen for its elegance and symbolism of purity.
2. Nymphaea alba (European White Water Lily): This European native showcases the classic beauty of white Water Lilies and has an enchanting fragrance that adds to its appeal.
3. Nymphaea ‘Marliacea Rosea’ (Pink Water Lily): With its soft pink petals, this variety adds a touch of romance to any water garden. It is a favourite choice for those seeking a delicate and charming Water Lily.
4. Nymphaea ‘Attraction’ (Red Water Lily): Unlike the traditional white and pink varieties, ‘Attraction’ boasts vibrant red petals, making it a striking focal point in water gardens.
5. Nymphaea ‘King of Siam’ (Black Water Lily): This unique variety is known for its dark maroon or nearly black petals, adding an element of mystery and drama to aquatic landscapes.
6. Nymphaea ‘Perry’s Baby Red’ (Dwarf Water Lily): Perfect for minor water features, this compact Water Lily offers petite, bright red flowers and lily pads.

Symbolism and Meaning

Water Lilies, as the July birth flower, are rich in symbolism and meaning, representing a tapestry of concepts that resonate with the essence of this summer month.

• Purity and Enlightenment: The primary symbolism associated with Water Lilies is purity. Just as these delicate blooms emerge from the muddy depths of ponds and waterways to float gracefully on the water’s surface, they symbolize the journey from the muddiness of materialism to the purity of enlightenment. This symbolism is particularly prominent in Buddhism, where Water Lilies are seen as a metaphor for the spiritual path, where the soul rises above worldly desires to attain clarity and purity of thought.
• Renewal and Rebirth: Water Lilies also evoke the themes of renewal and rebirth. In ancient Egyptian mythology, these flowers were linked to creation and rebirth. The daily blooming of Water Lilies was likened to the sun rising from the eastern horizon, signifying the cycle of life, death, and renewal. This association with renewal makes Water Lilies a fitting symbol for July, a month of vibrant growth and renewal in the natural world.
• Serenity and Tranquility: The serene ascendence of Water Lilies has made them a symbol of calmness and inner peace. Their presence in ponds and water gardens creates an oasis of tranquillity, fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. In this sense, Water Lilies encourages us to find serenity amidst life’s chaos and reflect upon our inner selves.
• Artistic Expression: Water Lilies have also left an indelible mark on art, notably through the works of Impressionist painter Claude Monet. His paintings featuring Water Lilies, including the iconic “Water Lilies” series, captured the blooms’ ethereal beauty and tranquillity. Monet’s artistic interpretations have elevated Water Lilies to symbols of creative expression, where the interplay of light, colour, and water represents the ever-changing nature of life and perception.
• Spiritual Growth: Beyond their physical beauty, Water Lilies represent spiritual growth and the unfolding of the soul’s journey. Just as these flowers rise above the water’s surface, individuals are encouraged to rise above their circumstances and strive for personal growth and enlightenment.

Conclusion

July’s birth flowers, Larkspur and Water Lily, stand as vibrant ambassadors of nature’s beauty and profound symbolism. With its kaleidoscope of colours, Larkspur invites us to celebrate love and open-heartedness while the Water Lily beckons us to explore purity, enlightenment, and inner peace. Whether planning a birthday celebration or seeking a meaningful way to express your emotions, these floral wonders offer a canvas of feelings.

To bring the enchantment of flowers into your life and the lives of your loved ones, we invite you to browse our selection of floral arrangements from Bourkes Florist. Order your birth flowers today and let us deliver the beauty of nature to your doorstep.

FAQs

Q: Can I find Larkspur and Water Lily year-round?

Larkspur and Water Lily are typically in season during the summer months, making them more readily available. However, you may find them year-round at some florists and nurseries with modern cultivation techniques and greenhouse production.

Q: How can I care for Larkspur and Water Lily in my garden?

Larkspur and Water Lily have specific care requirements. Larkspur thrives in well-drained soil and prefers cooler temperatures. Water Lily should be planted in a pond or garden with partial sun exposure. Adequate care, including regular watering and fertilization, will ensure their healthy growth.

Q: Are Larkspur and Water Lily toxic to pets?

Both Larkspur and Water Lily can be toxic to pets if ingested. Keeping these plants out of reach of curious pets is essential to ensure their safety. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of these plants, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Q: Are there any other birth flowers associated with July?

While Larkspur and Water Lily are the primary birth flowers for July, some sources also mention Ruby as the birthstone for this month due to its deep red colour, which complements the vibrant hues of Larkspur and Water Lily.